Rezoning to secure Birr soccer club lands

A 1.33-hectare site occupied by Highfield United FC in Birr is set to receive long-term security under a variation to the County Development Plan.

The amendment will see the land, identified as Birr Site No. 10, rezoned from Strategic Residential Reserve to Open Space, Amenity and Recreation, safeguarding its long-established use for sport and recreation.

Offaly County Council said the change reflects the Planning Authority’s commitment to protecting existing sporting and recreational facilities while ensuring sufficient land is available to support the town’s future growth.

Located within the built-up area of the town, the 1.33-hectare site is owned by Offaly County Council and has been used by Highfield Soccer Club for many decades.

The rezoning will formally recognise and protect the site’s established recreational function, ensuring it remains available for community sporting activities into the future.

The change comes following the adoption of a major variation to the Offaly County Development Plan, which will increase residential zoning across the county while also providing for a number of other strategic changes.

Proposed Variation No. 1 of the Offaly County Development Plan 2021-2027 was approved by Offaly County Council under Section 58 of the Planning and Development Act 2024 (as amended) following consideration of the Chief Executive’s Report, environmental assessments and public submissions.